Summer 1097 SR
"This," said Mother Avalyn, "is the dining hall."
Charlaine looked around the room, noting its finery. A long table was set with a variety of cutlery, not to mention an assortment of plates, bowls, and cups, which boggled the mind.
"As you see," Avalyn continued, "there is seating for numerous individuals, but before we get to all that, we need to familiarize you with the basics of eating."
"I"m a grown woman," said Charlaine. "I already know how to eat."
"There"s more to eating than simply stuffing food in your mouth. Take this, for example. Which knife would you use to begin your meal?"
Charlaine examined the place setting but could see no sign of where to begin. "The one on the outside?" she guessed.
A smile broke out on Mother Avalyn"s face. "That"s very good. The
